Deputy Foreign Minister Megi Fino said Chapter 31 remains one of the most advanced areas in Albania’s EU accession negotiations.
She spoke during a hearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Europe and Foreign Affairs. She serves as chief negotiator for Chapter 31 and co-negotiator for Chapter 30.
First, Fino said Chapter 31 covers foreign, security, and defense policy. She noted that the European Commission rated it as highly prepared in its latest progress report. She stressed that this progress matters for both Albania and the EU.
She also said Albania aligns fully with EU foreign policy positions. In addition, she confirmed that Albania follows EU statements and Council decisions on sanctions. During the first half of the year, Albania completed 52 alignments.
Furthermore, she said Albania enforces international sanctions through a National Committee on Restrictive Measures. She added that Albania also participates actively in the UN, OSCE, and UNESCO.
Fino highlighted progress on cybersecurity and hybrid threats. She said Albania strengthens its laws and institutions against disinformation. Moreover, she said Albania joined the EU Hybrid Threats Centre and NATO’s Cyber Defence Centre in Estonia.
She also said the Foreign Ministry created a special unit for cybersecurity. In addition, it formed an inter-institutional group to address hybrid threats.
Next, she spoke about Chapter 30. She said it covers trade, development, and humanitarian policy alignment with the EU.
She explained that the ministry drafted new policies and a law on international development cooperation. As a result, Albania moves from aid recipient to active contributor.
Finally, she said Chapter 31 includes one closing benchmark. Chapter 30 includes none in the ministry’s areas.
The committee then voted to continue the session behind closed doors due to sensitivity.
/a.c/
The post Fino: Chapter 31 Among the Most Advanced in Albania’s EU Negotiations appeared first on RTSH English.
